Witty

GlaxoSmithKline PLC has selected the president of its European pharmaceuticals division, Andrew Witty, to succeed Jean-Pierre Garnier as its chief executive officer, the company announced Monday.

Witty, 43, who was chosen over two other internal candidates, joined the company in 1985 and has held his current position since 2003.

He becomes CEO in May 2008.

"Andrew's appointment follows a rigorous selection process by the board of directors," said board chairman Sir Christopher Gent.

- AP